As exam period is fast approaching and study leave for year 12 Gumley students begins on the 9th May the pressure to do well and the stress of revision has dramatically increased. All students have been heavily encouraged to decides revision timetable, and religiously stick to it at this late stage in the preparation. Although many students are feeling drastic levels of stress, the teachers have consistently reassured them that there is support in every sector of the school whether it be with their specific subject teachers or any member of staff.

The exam period begins for the majority on the 11th May, running through till as late as June 22nd for some. The majority of the year 12 students will have between four and eight exams, spread across their four AS Level subjects. However throughout this period the students are provided with the opportunity to take study leave, in which they study at home throughout their exam period. Although they will be studying at home they will also have the option to visit school and request help from their various subject teachers, and attend any revision sessions of which have been set up. Throughout this time they will also be coming into school to sit their various exams.

One year 12 student, Abi, said “I am really struggling to fit everything in at the moment. There is so much going on, I am constantly revising but also trying to look at Universities and their courses! Am going through a very stressful time, but fingers crossed the final outcome will be worth it in the end!”

Following this exam period, the year 12 students will be participating in Gumley University. This opportunity is a scheme that runs through from the 11th June to 17th July, and in this timeframe the pupils are provided with a maximum of two weeks outside of school grounds to either visit Universities of their choice, or participate in work experience. The rest of the time the students will be required to complete study packs for their certain subjects, and continue to complete these over their summer holiday break. The idea behind these packs is that they will prepare the students for their extremely difficult A Level courses next year, and cover a selection of the course content so that it will enable them to finish their courses in time for their next year exams. 

Another year 12 student, Louise, commented on this programme, stating “I think this programme is an excellent idea for Gumley students. It is extremely beneficial for us, as it allows us an opportunity to have a break from hard core studying post exams but still ensures we get the required amount of work done. As well as this we are also able to gain any work experience we might be in need of, as well as visiting potential Universities of which is a crucial feature in the process of choosing the right place and course for us. I think this is a fantastic scheme Gumley run of which all us sixth form students are extremely grateful for, and I cannot wait to participate in it!”